The Original Eco Tour, planting a tree on every trip for future generations to enjoy!
Discover the rare natural wonder of Mou Waho Island on this combined lake cruise and guided nature walk. Explore a hidden alpine lake atop the island, encounter native wildlife, and enjoy panoramic mountain views just outside the charming town of Wānaka.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to handle a 1.5-hour return walk with some elevation gain and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Mou Waho Island is a designated nature reserve known for pioneering ecological restoration projects, including eradication of invasive species to protect native flora and fauna.
Conservation
Each tour plants a native tree to support ongoing reforestation efforts and preserve the island’s fragile ecosystems, encouraging visitors to actively contribute to conservation.
Eco Adventures Wanaka
The Original Eco Tour, planting a tree on every trip for future generations to enjoy!
Eco Adventures Wanaka is a guided outdoor tour operator based in Wānaka, Otago, offering small-group day trips that highlight Lake Wanaka and nearby alpine landscapes. The business provides a selection of guided experiences that combine scenic travel, natural history interpretation, and on-site conservation activities.
Signature trips include a Lake Cruise & Guided Island Nature Walk to Mou Waho Island where a scenic boat cruise reaches a hidden lake atop the island; guests take a guided nature walk, can encounter rare wildlife, enjoy afternoon tea, and participate by planting a native tree. The Blue Pools & Bridle Track Day Tour travels through Haast Pass and Silver Beech forests to the Blue Pools viewing area, with scenic lunch stops and historic track sections on the return journey. The Rob Roy Glacier Experience ventures into the Matukituki Valley with a guided 10km walk, swing bridge crossing and a gourmet lunch at the Rob Roy Glacier viewpoint. The Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Track is a 3.5-hour guided walk from Wanaka to Rocky Mountain with views of Diamond Lake and the Matukituki River, led by experienced local guides and including a gourmet sandwich lunch.
All trips are presented as guided, day-length experiences departing from Wānaka, focused on safety, natural history interpretation, and low-impact tourism. Information above is based on published trip summaries and factual trip features.
Location
Wānaka, Otago
Tour departures from Wānaka
Tours Offered
4 distinct tours
Island, glacier, lake, and river routes
Conservation
Tree planting
Native tree planting on Mou Waho Island
Guided Walks
Guided day trips
Local guides and natural history interpretation
Reserve a day trip to Mou Waho Island, Rob Roy Glacier, Blue Pools or Diamond Lake — check availability and trip details.
Bring sturdy shoes with good grip
The walking track has some steep sections and can be slippery when wet; hiking poles are available if needed.
Arrive 10 minutes early
Arrive promptly at Wanaka Marina to ensure your group can depart on time and enjoy the full experience.
Carry water and sun protection
A water bottle, sunscreen, and hat help keep you hydrated and protected during the outdoor portions of the trip.
Inform guides of mobility concerns
If walking uphill is challenging, let your guide know ahead of time for alternative arrangements or assistance.
Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes
Provides support and traction for variable trail conditions on Mou Waho Island.
Water bottle
Essential for staying hydrated during the cruise and walk.
all
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from strong sun exposure on the lake and island trails.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Useful in case of sudden rain showers common in New Zealand's alpine climate.
spring